"I mean to," answered Tony. "Come along and see that it's all fair."
"I will if I can get away. Will you give up your place if you are licked?"
"Yes," replied Tony, "I'll give up my place and leave the village."
"I don't believe Mr. Porter will take Sam back."
"I see you are expecting I will be whipped," said Tony, laughing; "but you're mistaken. Sam isn't able to do it."
James feared that Tony overestimated his prowess, but earnestly hoped that the boy, in whom he already felt a strong interest, would achieve the victory.
Meanwhile, Sam had made known the duel which was about to take place. He confidently anticipated victory, and wanted the village boys to be witnesses of the manner in which he was going to polish off that interloper.
"I'll learn him to cut me out of my place," he said, boastfully; "I'll learn him to mind his own business."
"Will you get your place again if you lick him?" asked one of his companions.
"Of course I will."